Apparatus and method for mounting a close-coupled catalyst

Abstract

Mounting close-coupled catalysts for internal combustion engines. In one aspect, supporting a catalyst in an internal combustion engine includes a mounting bracket coupled to a base surface of an engine block. One or more support rods are coupled between the mounting bracket and a housing of the catalyst, such that the catalyst is coupled to and supported by the base surface of the engine block.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present invention relates to internal combustion engines, and more particularly to mounting a catalyst for use in exhaust flow from internal combustion engines.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]Catalysts are used in internal combustion engines for emissions control of toxins and / or regulated emissions from the exhaust stream of the engine. For example, a catalyst used in a catalytic converter is commonly used in motor vehicle exhaust systems and other engine systems. The catalyst reduces the activation energy required for chemical reactions wherein combustion by-products are converted to less-toxic or non-regulated substances. Typically, the catalyst is connected to an exhaust flow of the engine to perform the desired conversion before emitting the exhaust from the engine to the atmosphere.[0003]A close-coupled catalyst (CCC) can be used in some engines for emissions control. The close coupled catalyst is used to convert carbon monoxide (CO) and hydroc...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The invention is about mounting close-coupled catalysts for internal combustion engines. The patent describes an apparatus and method for supporting a catalyst in the engine. The apparatus includes a mounting bracket and support rods that connect the catalyst to the engine block. This allows for stable support, flexibility of connection placement, and dampening of vibrations. The technical effect of the invention is improved performance and efficiency of the engine's exhaust system.

Problems solved by technology

However, coupling the catalyst too close to the doser can prevent the fuel from being sufficiently mixed in the exhaust stream, also reducing effectiveness.

While the addition of a close coupled catalyst provides a solution to certain emissions requirements, the appending of additional components to the engine creates its own set of problems.

Some engine configurations are not well configured for alternate placement and support of a close-coupled catalyst.

However, there is often little room to place a support for the catalyst.

Furthermore, overly constraining the catalyst to the block and / or other engine components may lead to failure of the system, such as cracking of component parts and gas leakage, due to thermal expansion of parts, vibration of the engine, installation preload, and / or other root causes and / or other behavioral characteristics.

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